character study

noun

1
: analysis or portrayal in literature of the traits of character of an individual
2
a
: a brief narrative or sketch devoted primarily to character study
b
: a realistic portrait in one of the plastic arts or in photography typically of an anonymous sitter whose face or figure reveals strong personality or character traits

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of character study was in 1841

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near character study

Cite this Entry

“Character study.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/character%20study. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!